Dana Adobe group in Nipomo maps a new goal

As the restoration of the Dana Adobe in Nipomo nears completion, the nonprofit group behind the work is seeking funds to help preserve three maps created in the 1840s depicting the California and Oregon territories.

They are lithographs of original maps donated to the Dana Adobe Nipomo Amigos by a local resident some time ago, said Doug Jenzen, director of the organization’s research and education programs.

Two of the maps were created by Lt. Col. John C. Fremont, who marched through the area with a battalion of men in 1846. Capt. William Goodwin Dana, who established the Nipomo rancho in the late 1830s, allowed them to camp and gave Fremont and his troops supplies for their trip to Santa Barbara.

The other map was done by Charles Wilkes, a U.S. naval officer who led an expedition from 1838-42.

Premium content for only $0.99

Given their age, the maps are in decent condition. “They’re still in one piece,” Jenzen said.

The Dana Adobe Nipomo Amigos want to restore, frame and display the maps in an exhibit at the adobe. One map will be restored at the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles at a cost of about $1,000.

The group has raised about $1,000, Jenzen said, but hopes to bring in an additional $2,000 to complete the work on the three maps.

The group has several other upcoming events. A fundraiser, the Orchid Show Preview Benefit for the Dana Adobe, will be held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on March 30 at the South County Regional Center, 800 W. Branch St., in Arroyo Grande.

Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at www.danaadobe.org or by calling 481-3991 or 929-5749.

Jenzen will also hold a book signing from 1 to 3 p.m. on March 24 at the adobe for a new volume on the Nipomo region, which includes 205 historical photos.

The official reopening of the adobe after 11 years of restoration is planned for July 28 and will include dances, docents in costume and activities for children.

And this weekend, about 32 members of the Rotary Club of Nipomo will spend a few hours cleaning, painting and pulling weeds.

For more information about any of the events, call 929-5679. The adobe is at 671 S. Oakglen Ave. in Nipomo.

Cynthia Lambert and Gayle Cuddy write the South County Beat column on alternating Wednesdays. Reach Cynthia Lambert at 781-7929. Stay updated by following @SouthCounty Beat on Twitter.